Bubbly & Shellfish

Everyone knows oysters and Champagne pair impeccably well but a more economical choice for your New Year's Eve party is mussels paired with your glass of bubbly. You can make a large amount of steamed mussels and pair them with a good bottle of Champagne or even steam your mussels with the Champagne! Either way, partnering bubbly and shellfish is a great way to ring in the New Year as well as impress guests at your dinner parties year round.

How to pair mussels and Champagne

Most Champagne has a bright bubbly characteristic that has an exquisite affinity for slightly salty and very rich, luscious dishes.

The acidity in the Champagne pairs perfectly with the delicate salty flavor of steamed mussels. For the best Champagne and mussels experience, serve the very chilled Champagne with a piping hot bowl of steamed mussels and crusty bread for dipping.

The best Champagne for New Year's Eve

A light and dry blanc de blancs Champagne, such as Billecart Salmon Blanc de Blancs ($35), is the best bubbly for mussels.

When cooking with Champagne choose a more robust classic brut, such as Iron Horse Green Valley Classic Vintage Brut ($30), which has a hint of citrus and yeast.

Regardless of the Champagne you choose, just remember the most important tip, when cooking with Champagne, always have a little glass on the side for the cook! Happy New Year!